Allen Iverson is just as intent on finishing his career with the 76ers as he is in helping the United States win a gold medal in next year's Olympics.

Iverson, who has at most two years remaining on a contract that he can opt out of following the 2003-04 season, left no doubt where his loyalties lie.

After scoring 11 points and adding five assists in 26 minutes for the U.S. national team during yesterday's 101-74 exhibition win over Puerto Rico at Madison Square Garden, Iverson stated his desire to finish his professional career where it began. When asked if he was seeking a contract extension with the Sixers, Iverson got right to the point.

"I think that is one of the most important things for me to get done in my life right now," Iverson said. "It's important to make sure I am inked in and know where my career is going and where I am going to be and where my family is going to be."

Iverson is entering his eighth year with the Sixers. He is scheduled to make $13.5 million this season as part of a six-year, $71 million deal.

Iverson's contract for the 2004-05 season is for $14.62 million. If he opts out after the coming season, he would become an unrestricted free agent and could still re-sign with the Sixers.

Last month, Iverson's agent Leon Rose confirmed that he and Billy King, the Sixers' president and general manager, had begun informal discussions on a contract extension. Rose, who attended yesterday's game, said there was nothing new to report on negotiations.

If Iverson signs an extension before the 2003-04 season ends, he can add five years totaling about $96 million - considering the maximum allowed under the league's collective-bargaining agreement - to the $14.62 million for next year.

"I always said from the beginning that I wanted to be a Sixer until my career is over," Iverson said. "I always looked at and respected players like Magic [Johnson] and [Larry] Bird for being able to be with one team. That's the way I want to be."